Special to the HT
White River Agency, Colorado
July 7, 1879
Sir: In close, herewith, proposals of Messrs. Clements, Leadville, Colorado, for constructing agency building, they are so indefinite that I cannot see how they can form more than a basis, and as I do not know whether it was necessary the contract should be closed before the first of July, 1878, and as I did not know whether there were $6,000 or $4,000 available, since $2,000 of the removal fund was appropriated last quarter, and after you had stated there was only $6,000 I could not see my way to enter into any contract, and, therefore, I submit the proposals, the only ones received, for your action.
If the undertaking is still to be considered as open, I have to say that the sum of $6,000 is not sufficient for constructing the buildings, and that this is the reason why no more bids were received. The Messrs. Clements are acquainted with this country, and it will be seen that in effect this bid considerably exceeds the $6,000.
The question remaining with me is, whether, if anything can now be done, a part of the building may not be constructed; say, the warehouse and school-house, letting the agent get along with out; or at least the school -house, costing $2,000. If education is to be entered upon with any reasonable chances of success, there must be a suitable·building, both to secure needed conveniences, and to command the respect of the Indians, which the log house wholly fails to accomplish.
Respectfully,
N.C. MEEKER
Indian Agent
HON. E.A. HAYT,
Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D.C.
